1.
The ~ of something is the most perfect or typical example of it. (FORMAL)
He was the ~ of all that Eva most deeply loathed.
N-UNCOUNT: with supp, usu the N of n
2.
The ~ of something is the aspect of it which seems to represent its central nature. (FORMAL)
...an old stone cottage, the ~ of rural England.
N-UNCOUNT: with supp, usu the N of n